Studies indicate that DRE can affect specific signaling pathways involved in cancer cell proliferation and survival. For instance, it may activate the extrinsic pathway of apoptoses, potentially involving caspase-8 activation.
In breast cancer, DRE may affect the P13K/AKT signaling pathways involved by inhibiting the expression of choline kinase α (CHKA).
DRE can also influence the expression of genes associated with cell death and survival. Studies show that DRE treatment led to the upregulation of pro-apoptotic genes and downregulation of anti-apoptotic genes in certain cancer cell lines.
